Erin Yarwood is a journalism senior and opinion columnist for Mustang News. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Mustang Media Group.
When you enter college, everyone tells you those four or five years will fly by, just like you heard at the start of high school. And once again, they were right.
All of the sudden there’s only two months left until you graduate and move on with your life. Time to squeeze in every SLO and Cal Poly related fun activity before it’s too late. I give you the SLO senior spring bucket list to make sure you can maximize the best quarter of the year.
- Going to Workout Classes at the Rec
Take advantage of access to these workout classes while you can. The yoga classes are doable for yogis of all levels and the spin classes are actually really fun, especially with friends. If you partake in a spin class, I recommend Tuesday classes with Larry. During spring quarter, ASI hosts Hydro Hype H.I.I.T. classes or you can check out the Hip Hop & Heels class that the Poly Reps rave about. These classes are such a fun way to exercise with your friends without paying for a workout class off campus.
- Camping on Cuesta Ridge
Cuesta Ridge has one of the most incredible views I have seen and plenty of free camping spots along the fire road. If you and your friends are trying to get a camping trip together, but lack the motivation to go away for the weekend, a night on Cuesta Ridge is an easy solution. Make sure you drive a car that can handle the bumps and bring a hammock to relax in among the trees.
- Watching Sunset in Montaña de Oro
If you’re graduating and haven’t watched the sunset from MDO, you are missing out big time. A thirty minute coastline drive through beautiful eucalyptus trees and endless views is a must-do. Grab some dinner before and enjoy some time with your friends in one of the most beautiful sites in the Central Coast.
- Completing the Tri-Tip Challenge
If you haven’t completed the Tri-Tip challenge by now, this is your sign. Hike up the three peaks: the Cal Poly P, Madonna and Bishop’s Peak all in one day, and reward yourself with a yummy tri-tip sandwich at Firestone. Extra points if you walk from peak to peak (the real SLO rite of passage).
- Bowling Night at Mustang Lanes
Hit up San Luis Obispo’s only bowling alley in the University Union. A game of bowling with the buds is an underrated fun activity. It’s cheap, convenient and a perfect full circle moment to relieve your Week of Welcome. Mustang Lanes is open til 10 PM, seven days a week and is only $2.50 per game on Tuesdays!
- Taking a Trip to Big Sur
Not taking advantage of how close we are to Big Sur is a crime. Hang out at one of the beaches a couple hours north or go for a hike along the coast. Grab lunch in Cambria and head to Salmon Creek for a short hike to a beautiful pool in the trees.
- Visiting Monterey Bay Aquarium
Life hack: if you have an EBT Cal Fresh card, which a lot of Cal Poly students do, you and three guests can get into the Monterey Bay Aquarium completely free thanks to the Museums for All program. If you don’t have one yet, you probably qualify. No need to buy tickets in advance or anything. Make a day trip out of it, or stay overnight, to see all the amazing sea life and exhibits the aquarium has to offer.
- Thrifting in Cayucos
Take a short trip up Highway 1 to the lovely beach town of Cayucos. Hit up their countless antique and thrift stores after grabbing breakfast at Hidden Kitchen. Maybe you’ll find the grad dress of your dreams. You’ll never know if you don’t search every thrift store in a five-mile radius.
- Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Head to Morro Bay or Avila Beach and rent a kayak or paddleboard. You’ll get to see sea otters up close and enjoy the view of the endless sea. It’s the kind of peaceful experience that makes you realize how lucky you are to go to school here.
- Taking your Graduation Pictures with Friends
No senior year bucket list is complete without capturing your memories through pictures. Get your friends together, put on your cap and gown and pose in front of rolling green hills or at Pismo beach. If you want to take advantage of the beautiful Cal Poly letter statue in the UU, you might as well. Your tuition paid for them after all.
Your last quarter of senior year is the quarter to cherish the memories you’ve made, and maybe revisit some of them. Our time in SLO, at least as Cal Poly students, is limited, so make the most of it. As one of my dear friends says, “We need to spend as much quality time together before we never see each other again.”
